Leica Histology Lab Equipment Maintenance   2

This is a Notice of Intent published in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 5.101(a)(1) requiring the dissemination of information regarding proposed contract actions. This Notice of Intent is for a proposed award of a sole source, firm-fixed price contract, as authorized by FAR 13.106-1 soliciting from a single source. This notice is not a request for competitive quotes.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 23 intends to award a sole source, firm-fixed price contract to Leica Microsystems Inc. for proprietary scheduled and unscheduled maintenance for Leica-brand Histology Lab Equipment, including Leica Peloris 3 Tissue Processor and Leica RM2255 Microtome machines. Vendor must be an OEM authorized dealer, authorized servicer, authorized distributor, or authorized reseller for the proposed equipment and/or services contracts for maintenance of equipment (i.e. replacement parts), verified by an authorization letter or other documents from the OEM, such that the OEM's warranty and service are provided and maintained by the OEM. All software licensing, warranty and service associated with the supplies, equipment and/or services contracts for maintenance of equipment shall be in accordance with the OEM terms and conditions. VA requires the proprietary maintenance and emergency repair services from Leica Microsystems Inc. because the parts, maintenance and repair services are unique or proprietary to Leica Microsystems Inc. Market research revealed that Leica Microsystems Inc. is the only authorized provider allowed to perform maintenance on Leica Microsystems Inc. equipment currently being utilized by VA. The prime contractor for the maintenance and repair services must be Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) certified, offer OEM parts, and shall not provide gray market items. Gray market items are OEM goods sold through unauthorized channels in direct competition with authorized distributors. No remanufactured or gray market items will be acceptable. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this requirement is 811219 the service code is J065.

While this synopsis does not constitute a solicitation, interested vendors may identify their interest and capability to satisfy the requirement. All responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal or quotation which shall be considered by the agency. The Government understands that Leica Microsystems Inc. is the only vendor that can provide the requested services. However, vendors that believe they can provide the capabilities required to fully meet the Government's requirement may submit information in writing to john.breyer@va.gov by 8:00 AM Central Time on Wednesday, May 19, 2021. Such documentation will be reviewed solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct the procurement on a competitive basis. A determination not to compete this requirement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.